FG To Inaugurate New Addressing Council To Boost National Security, Service Delivery |SituationReport|

By Idorenyin UMOREN, Uyo

The Federal Government on Thursday, December 5, 2024, said it was set to inaugurate a new National Addressing System Council in a bid to drive Nigeria’s agenda on planning, economic/financial inclusion, national security as well as ensuring effective national addressing system.

This was revealed through a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, after a pre-meeting at the State Abuja.

The Council, chaired by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, as well as technical committee, will be inaugurated next year, the statement said.

Underscoring the need for the immediate standardisation of Nigeria’s addressing system, the Vice President described the move as essential for improving basic navigation, service delivery, enhancing urban planning, and driving economic growth; thereby ending decades of infrastructural deficits and create a systematic approach to national address mapping.

He said: “We cannot solve the challenges of urban planning, service delivery, or even basic navigation unless we establish a system that creates order. A robust addressing system is not just about convenience; it is about national development, security, and socio-economic progress.

“We live in cities where most houses are either haphazardly numbered or not numbered at all. This does more than complicate address mapping—it undermines trust in address verification, slows emergency responses, and excludes millions from financial services.”

Shettima stressed that a standardised addressing system will enhance logistics, strengthen e-commerce, and foster trust in financial services. It will also enable accurate emergency response and disaster management, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.

“The challenge before us is not about delegating responsibilities but about creating a synergy that cuts across federal, state, and local governments. Political will and technical expertise must work hand in hand to make this initiative a success”.

Two presentations from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) were made at the meeting.
|SituationReport|